Powers Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Powers Dam, located on the Clear Fork Brazos River in Stephens, Texas, is a private gravity dam completed in 1921 with a height of 9 feet and a length of 100 feet.


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Summary

The dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and has a storage capacity of 218 acre-feet. Despite its age, Powers Dam has not been rated for its condition and has a high risk assessment level of 2, although the hazard potential is not available.

The dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state, although it does undergo state permitting and inspection. Powers Dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency and has had no modifications since its completion. The dam is in a rural area and has not been associated with any other structures. Despite its lack of federal oversight, Powers Dam remains a significant feature in the local water resource system, providing essential storage capacity for the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Powers Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned and operated dam in Texas with a long history of service. The dam's location on the Clear Fork Brazos River adds to its importance in the region's water management system. While the lack of recent inspections and condition assessments may raise concerns, the dam's continued operation highlights the critical role it plays in supporting local water needs. As discussions around dam safety and maintenance continue, Powers Dam stands as a reminder of the diverse challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

CLEAR FORK BRAZOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

218

Structural Height

9

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.